Chief Minister Thakur Sukhvinder Singh Sukhu inaugurated the new multipurpose indoor stadium at Kaliyara in Shahpur Assembly Constituency, Kangra. Built at a cost of Rs. 3.36 crore, the stadium includes facilities for basketball, badminton, and a fitness centre. Speaking at the event, the Chief Minister emphasized that education remains the top priority of the state government. He highlighted that Himachal Pradesh has achieved fifth rank in quality education, a significant improvement from the 21st position during the previous government’s tenure.
The Chief Minister also spoke about the government’s plan to convert 100 government senior secondary schools to the CBSE curriculum to enhance rural education, prepare students for competitive exams, and boost self-confidence. Kaliyara school has already been approved for CBSE conversion, where science and commerce streams will be introduced, along with a proper dress code. Students in these schools will not be allowed to carry mobile phones, ensuring focus on studies, sports, and co-curricular activities.
On infrastructure development, CM Sukhu announced that Rs. 460 crore has been released for the expansion of Kangra airport to accommodate larger aircraft, boost tourism, improve connectivity, and create employment opportunities for youth, with additional funds to be released soon. He also stressed the government’s focus on healthcare, stating that Rs. 78 crore has been allocated for setting up advanced laboratories in IGMC Shimla, Tanda Medical College, and Chamiyana Super Specialty Hospital to ensure better medical facilities and accurate testing.
Urging farmers to adopt natural farming, the Chief Minister said that the state has introduced minimum support prices for wheat, maize, and turmeric grown through this method, creating employment opportunities in agriculture.
Social Justice and Empowerment Minister Dr. (Col) Dhani Ram Shandil praised CM Sukhu’s leadership, highlighting initiatives like the Sukh-Aashray complex at Luthan, Kangra, which provides shelter for destitute children, women, and the elderly under the Mukhya Mantri Sukh-Aashray Yojna with a capacity of 400. He also urged society to support the government’s campaign against drug abuse.
